write a space story with these elements in mind

Let’s Write a Space Story

Writing a space story inherently means an exploration of the universe as an expanded idea of the world we inhabit.  No matter if the genre is hard sci fi or science fantasy, the idea of space exploration is a fundamental human thing.  It’s the same …

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guide to building a homebrew Starfinder campaign

Guide to Building a Homebrew Starfinder Campaign

When creating your own homebrew Starfinder campaign, consider the following elements: Use character backstories Read Starfinder lore for inspiration The New Planet—Exploration A Mysterious Signal—Cosmic Horror Cyber Mystery—Intrigue Bounty Hunts—Alien Monsters Outlaws—Don’t Get Caught The world built in the Starfinder RPG franchise is impressive and …

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how to write a space western

Writing a Space Western: How to Write Cowboys in Space

When writing a story in the space western genre, consider the following elements: Western Hero Tropes. Themes of Exploration and Isolation How Does Technology Push Human Expansion? Arid/Desolate Setting The space western is a niche subgenre of sci fi that pulls elements of classic American …

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sci fi short story beginning tips

How to Start a Sci Fi Short Story

Often, starting a sci fi short story can be daunting.  Are you diving into an expansive, cosmic world?  Tackling concepts that bend the mind?  Like any story, there are techniques that bring your ideas down to earth and catch your reader/viewer. Start a sci fi …

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ghost in the shell what is a ghost

Ghost in the Shell: What is a Ghost?

A ghost, in Ghost in the Shell, refers to a sentient being’s ability to experience and maintain a sense of self.  However, this notion is challenged throughout the manga and anime adaptations with cybernetics and artificial intelligence—posing a greater philosophical question about existence and meaning.  …

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Starfinder operative character guide

Starfinder Operative Class Guide

In Starfinder, the Operative class is akin to the rogue in fantasy genres, reliant on stealth, cunning, accuracy and an assortment of skills.  These espionage experts cover a wide range of character possibilities—from heartless assassins to charming spies to outlaw hackers.  Therefore, let’s take a …

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dnd 5e laser gun rules

Guide to Lasers: DnD 5e

Did you know laser guns are actual, usable items in Dungeons and Dragons 5e? To use laser guns in Dungeons and Dragons 5e, consider the following factors: Figuring Out Alien Technology What can laser guns do? Implementing laser pistols in a story In fact, a …

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did spike spiegel die at the end of cowboy bebop?

Cowboy Bebop: Is Spike Spiegel Actually Dead?

Maybe, maybe not.  Series creator Shinichiro Watanabe never specifies that he does, leaving it up to interpretation.  Spike has survived unbelievable battle wounds and bounced back, so the possibility is there.  Ultimately, this scene was the end of his story arch.  He finished his personal …

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cowboy bebop what happened to Earth?

Cowboy Bebop: What Happened to Earth?

In the western-based lore of Cowboy Bebop, the first astral gate, built in 2022 to orbit the moon, exploded in a devastating catastrophe.  The resulting astral rocks fell to Earth in a massive shower, killing most of the planet’s population and driving civilization underground.  These …

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starfinder lashunta envoy outlaw character guide

Guide to Building a Lashunta Envoy Outlaw: Starfinder

When playing Starfinder, consider building a Lashunta Envoy Outlaw like this: Pick the Damaya lashunta subtype Choose the Outlaw theme Pick Envoy Improvisations that create advantage Choose Expertise Talents around deception The Envoy class in Starfinder is your typical starship captain archetype.  Sometimes, that looks …

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